The Horned Grebe (Podiceps auritus) is a small, striking waterbird that is often seen in Ohio during migration seasons. While its breeding plumage is famous for its golden “horns” and rich chestnut body, the nonbreeding plumage tells a very different story. In Ohio, birders most often encounter Horned Grebes in this nonbreeding stage, especially during late fall, winter, and early spring. Recognizing the subtler plumage is key to correct identification.

---

Appearance of the Horned Grebe in Nonbreeding Plumage

During nonbreeding season, the Horned Grebe loses its flamboyant summer colors and takes on a much plainer look:

Head & Neck: White cheeks and throat with a sharp contrast to the black cap that extends just below the eye.

Back & Wings: Dark gray to blackish upperparts with white patches visible during flight. Bill: Thin, straight, and dark with a slight pale tip.

Overall Impression: Compact, small waterbird with a short neck and low profile on the water, often mistaken for similar grebes or small ducks.

This subdued plumage makes them more challenging to spot, but the strong contrast between the black cap and white face is a reliable field mark in Ohio’s lakes and reservoirs.

---

Seasonal Occurrence in Ohio

Horned Grebes are not year-round residents of Ohio. Instead, they pass through the state during migration and occasionally overwinter on open water:

Spring Migration: March through May, often seen on inland lakes as they head north to breeding grounds in Canada. Fall Migration: October through December, with individuals scattered across larger lakes such as Lake Erie and smaller reservoirs. Wintering: In mild winters, some remain in Ohio, especially on unfrozen waters of Lake Erie.

Birders scanning open water during migration often find them mixed with Eared Grebes, Red-necked Grebes, or diving ducks.

---

Habitat in Ohio

In nonbreeding plumage, Horned Grebes are most often found on:

Large Lakes & Reservoirs – Lake Erie is a hotspot during migration. Rivers with Open Water – particularly near dams where water doesn’t freeze. Inland Ponds & Quarries – occasionally during stopovers.

Unlike in breeding season, they do not nest in Ohio; they are only present as migrants or winter visitors.

---

Behavior & Feeding

Horned Grebes are expert divers. Even in nonbreeding plumage, their behavior remains distinctive:

Diving for Food: They feed mainly on small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. Low Floating Posture: They ride low on the water, often disappearing for long dives. Solitary or Small Groups: In Ohio, they are usually alone or in small flocks, though larger gatherings occur on Lake Erie.

Their dives and small size can make them difficult to track, but patient observation reveals their patterns.

---

Distinguishing from Similar Species

In Ohio, birders often confuse Horned Grebes with Eared Grebes, Pied-billed Grebes, or even small diving ducks:

Eared Grebe (nonbreeding): Darker overall with a thinner bill and a “fluffy” look behind the head. Pied-billed Grebe: Lacks the sharp black-and-white face contrast and has a thicker bill. Diving Ducks (e.g., Bufflehead): More buoyant and have different diving patterns.

Field guides and scope views help confirm identification during migration season.

---

Importance for Ohio Birders

Spotting a Horned Grebe in nonbreeding plumage is a rewarding experience for Ohio birders. Though less colorful than their breeding counterparts, their presence signals healthy migratory stopover habitats. Birders at Lake Erie, Hoover Reservoir, and inland quarries should keep an eye out for their crisp black-and-white faces and low, compact profiles on the water.

---

Conservation Notes

The Horned Grebe is considered Vulnerable globally, with population declines due to habitat loss, oil spills, and climate change. Protecting migratory stopovers in Ohio is essential for supporting this species during its long journey between breeding and wintering grounds.

Thank you for reading!